Apr. 21, 2010

Pack's Tavern opened Monday in the old Hayes and Hopson building adjoining the refurbished Pack Square Park downtown. It offers dozens of beer options, plus a tasty menu. / Steve Dixon/sdixon@citizen-times.com

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Pack's Tavern has opened its doors at 20 Spruce St., next to Pack Square Park, and it's looking like a great spot to enjoy a cold brew and a bite this weekend.

The space should be familiars to locals — the historic Hayes and Hopson Building was home to the beloved Bill Stanley's bluegrass and barbecue joint in the 1980s. But beyond a mean rack of ribs, Pack's Tavern doesn't share much similarity with the old Stanley's.

The tavern has 32 beer taps, including many locals, plus 39 brews in bottles. There's a big beer menu, broken down by style. Local beers are in green-colored print, making them easy to find.

For the hungry, there's a nice selection of appetizers, sandwiches and entrees. And those with a monster appetite should try the Mt. Mitchell Burger: an 8-ounce burger, Swiss and cheddar cheese, fried green tomato, two slices of thick bacon, fried egg with runny yolk, and jalapeño peppers.